Quick Answer
October is one of the best times to ride the WK&S Railroad in Kempton. The 40-minute round trip winds through forests, farmland, hills, bridges, Ontelaunee Creek, and old-time towns just as the fall color is changing. This year, the season also includes four Pumpkin Patch Train dates for kids of all ages, followed by the Bow Wow Express on November 1 to close out the regular riding season.
There’s something about a train ride in the fall that feels just right.
Air is starting to cool down. The trees start turning. The countryside around Kempton takes on those deep reds, golds, oranges, and greens that make you want to slow down and look around.
That’s exactly what October at the WK&S Railroad is all about.
Our trains travel through some of the most beautiful scenery in northern Berks County, including forests, rolling farmland, tree-covered hills, bridges, Ontelaunee Creek, and the old-time towns of Trexler and Wanamakers.
What Makes a Fall Train Ride at WK&S So Special?
Fall changes the entire experience.
Maybe the same route you have ridden in spring or summer looks completely different once the leaves begin to turn. It becomes part train ride, part sightseeing trip, and part step back in time.
Our regular ride is about 40 minutes round trip, which makes it long enough to settle in and enjoy the scenery without turning it into an all-day commitment.
Bring your camera. Bring the kids. Bring the grandparents.
Honestly, this is one of those outings that works for just about every age.
When Are the Pumpkin Patch Trains?
This year, the Pumpkin Patch Train runs October 17, 18, 24, and 25.
And when we say Pumpkin Patch Train, we mean pumpkins for kids of all ages.
The train takes riders to the WK&S Great Pumpkin Patch, where everyone gets to choose a pumpkin. Back at the Kempton Station, riders can pick from decorating kits to dress up their pumpkins, and there’s even a treat from one of our witches.
Trains depart at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00 p.m., and reservations are suggested.
It’s simple, seasonal, and just plain fun.
Should Adults Come Without Children?
Absolutely.
One thing we love about the WK&S is that you do not need a little one with you to enjoy the experience.
Adults come for the scenery, the history, the train itself, the photography, and sometimes just for a different kind of fall afternoon.
The Pumpkin Patch Train is designed for “kids” of all ages, so yes, adults can choose a pumpkin too.
What Happens After the Pumpkin Patch Trains?
There’s one more special ride before our regular season comes to an end.
On November 1, we’ll welcome four-legged passengers aboard for the Bow Wow Express.
Guests can bring their dogs for a special 40-minute train ride. There will be a photographer on site, dogs receive a complimentary biscuit, and guests bringing furry friends receive a coupon for a free hot dog.
Proceeds from pet tickets benefit Furever Home Rescue.
Reservations are required for both people and pets, and all dogs must be on a leash.
We think Bow Wow deserves its own spotlight too, especially because it’s such a fun way to wrap up the regular season before we turn our attention to Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Ready to “Fall” Aboard?
October does not last very long.
Neither does peak fall color.
So come spend an afternoon with us in Kempton, enjoy the scenery, pick a pumpkin, take plenty of pictures, and make one more fall memory before the season changes again.
The WK&S Railroad is located at 42 Community Center Drive in Kempton, PA.
Tickets for the Pumpkin Patch Train and Bow Wow Express can be reserved online at www.kemptontrain.com